Considered one of the most important models of the Mercedes-Benz S series, the W140 was presented as a masterpiece designed to inspire future models by drawing lessons from previous models. That’s what happened. Let’s take a closer look at why the Mercedes W140 model, 30 years after its first launch, is a legend.
It is possible to talk about many important models in the history of Mercedes-Benz, which has been producing automobiles for nearly a century. However, there is one that is considered the most important model of both the S series, the 1990s and the history of the automobile; Mercedes W140. The Mercedes W140 was introduced as a masterpiece specially designed to inspire future models by learning from the mistakes made in previous models.
Even today, 30 years after the Mercedes W140 model was first produced, it is still considered a true legend. Billions of dollars were spent on the long design process, advanced features compared to its period, and its amazing chassis that makes you excited even when you see it are some of the reasons that make this model a legend. Let’s take a closer look at the story of the Mercedes W140 model.
The Mercedes W140 design process took longer than expected:
The S series, which started with the Mercedes-Benz W116 model in 1972, became a true pioneer in the automobile world. The period when it exploded was with the launch of the W140 model, the 3rd generation of the S series. Many see the W140 as the last model Mercedes-Benz produced without commercial concerns.
The model, whose project was worked on throughout the 1980s, was actually expected to be introduced in 1989, but designer Bruno Sacco thought that this time would not be enough. Wolfgang Peter, who was involved in the design process, came up with ideas that increased both the cost and time of this process.
Mercedes-Benz wasted time and money for designing the W140 without any commercial concerns. When the Mercedes W140 was finally unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1991, all car lovers were confident that this model would become a legend for many years to come. The W140 model, produced until 1998, was truly inspiring.
The Mercedes W140 chassis was ahead of its time:
Mercedes-Benz engineers and designers were meticulous on the W140 model in order not to repeat the mistakes they made in previous models. Before talking about the great features offered by the interior, it is necessary to take a closer look at the case of this model. Even when we leave aside the technical details, it is a visible fact that the case design is a true masterpiece.
Double-glazed windows, power-assisted closing for doors, obstacle-sensitive automatic windows, rear parking signs, a heating system that emits warm air even after the engine is turned off, and many more special systems made the body of the W140 stand out with features that had never been seen before.
A tank with precise maneuvers:
The Mercedes W140 model weighs more than 2 tons and is more than 5 meters long. Evaluated in the luxury car class, this 4-door sedan model has stability control, traction control, navigation, voice controls, HID headlights, side curtain airbags, rain-sensing wipers, brake assist and climate control.
In addition to all these features, the outstanding feature of this model, which is as big as a tank, was its precise maneuverability. It provided strong handling and a comfortable ride in all road conditions. It was the adjustable air suspensions of the model that provided these features that maximized driving safety.
Such large vehicles generally run a bit noisy. However, it would be wrong to say that the Mercedes W140 model is noisy. Mercedes-Benz engineers were also sensitive in this regard and took help from a Japanese developer and produced a special exhaust system. In this way, the W140 hit the road with a quiet operating noise compared to previous models.
Some of the timeless features of the Mercedes W140:
- BAS braking system that maximizes braking power.
- On-board computer system called ESP that improves the driving experience.
- Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights that offer a much more vivid appearance.
- Side airbags that increase passenger safety.
- Rain sensor wipers that increase driving safety.
- Double-paned soundproof windows.
- Automatic folding exterior mirrors.
- Rear parking guide bars.
- Heated front seats with memory.
- Multifunctional rear view mirror.
- Air conditioning system that provides climate control and works even after the engine is turned off.
- Electric rear sun visor.
Mercedes W140 engine models:
- S 280 engine produced from 1993 to 1998; It has 2.8 liters, 6 cylinders and has 193 HP horsepower and 270 Nm torque.
- 300 SE and 300 SEL engines produced from 1991 to 1993; It is 3.2 liters, 6 cylinders and has 231 HP horsepower and 310 Nm torque.
- 400 SE and 400 SEL engines produced from 1991 to 1993; It is 4.2 liters, 8 cylinders and has 275 HP horsepower and 400 Nm torque.
- S 500 engine produced from 1993 to 1999; It is 5.0 liters, has 8 cylinders and has 315 HP horsepower and 480 Nm torque.
- The S 600 engine produced between 1993 and 1999: It is 6.0 liters, has 12 cylinders and has 394 hp and 520 Nm of torque.